Critical Element Definition - MilitaryDictionary.org

critical element

1.) An element of a target, which if effectively engaged, will serve to support the achievement of an operational objective and/or mission task.

2.) An element of an entity or object that enables it to perform its primary function.

See Also:

• also called CE

In the United States, military vocabulary is standardized by the Department of Defence. These terms are used by the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps.

Term Classification: operations